Detective Senior Constable Richard Hughes said the woman returned to her home on December 27 after three days away to find her property had been broken into.

"Inside the premises every room had been ransacked," Detective Senior Constable Hughes said.

Two precious family heirlooms - an engagement ring and a wedding ring - were stolen.

A Toshiba laptop, which contained scanned family photographs dating back years, was also taken during the burglary.

About 50 pairs of earrings and a red Kathmandu jacket were also taken.

Detective Senior Constable said the value of the items was several thousand dollars but the rings and photos could not be replaced.

A forensic examination of the house was conducted and the fingerprints of a man known to police were found on a number of items. A 35-year-old Warrnambool man, who had also allegedly stolen $17 worth of food from BP One Stop on December 26, was arrested on January 2.

He was remanded in custody until February 7 after bail was refused on January 4 in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court.

Detective Senior Constable Hughes said the man was facing charges including burglary, theft and steal from a retail premises.

"The man has refused to assist investigators in any way, shape or form," he said.

Detective Senior Constable Hughes said this was despite forensic evidence linking him to the crime scene.

"He has refused to return the items to the woman," he said.

Detective Senior Constable Hughes urged anyone with information about the whereabouts of the items was asked to contact the Warrnambool CIU on 5560 1116.

He urged people to report suspicious behaviour and keep an eye out on properties that were unoccupied.

"It's a low act," Detective Senior Constable Hughes said.

"If anyone has any information, please report it, the woman is devastated and just wants the precious items back."

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